Mexico
Project Highlights
- Cell Tanks contain highly corrosive sulfuric based electrolyte
- Cracks in tank walls repaired with carbon composites
- Specialized thermoplastic coating installed to protect the tank
Project:
The cell tank is filled with electrolyte solution as part of the refining process. Over time the acidic content of the solution penetrates the polymer concrete walls and weakens the cell structurally. With the continued loading and unloading of the cell, the weakened concrete eventually cracks and leaks occur.
Solution:
The cell tank surfaces were profiled, and coated with a base coat. Carbon Fiber (CFRP) was installed in cracked areas to restore original structural strength of the cell.
A proprietary flame applied thermo-plastic coating was then applied to the entire inside of the cell to protect the repair and the cell from future chemical attack.
Result:
Long-term repair of cell tanks extended life of the facility and avoided large new capital investment.